A new chemotherapy unit at Mount Vernon Hospital funded largely by charity donations was open by Sir Terry Wogan this afternoon.

The new £1.43m unit started treating people in February this year and has room for 15 patients to receive chemotherapy simultaneously.

After a speech from existing patient Brenda Campbell, Sir Terry Wogan cut the ribbon in front of a plaque detailing the wide range of organisations which supported the project.

Sir Terry Wogan said: “It’s some achievement and everyone involved should be very proud. It’s a privilege, a pleasure and an honour to be here. This is the fulfilment of an ambitious dream and I’m proud to play even a small part in something of such important medical significance that will do so much good.”

Commenting on the dismal weather, he said: “I carry around my own personal black cloud, everywhere I go it rains. But a little bit of rain doesn’t hurt anyone.”